WINE PAIRING:
2009 Aresti Sauvignon Blanc - Vincente Aresti and the Aresti family produce a fine line of wines that retail around $10. Their Pinot Noir at $15 is one of my favorite Pinots under $20 and a great QPR. In 1999, the Aresti family began making wine under their own label, acquiring new land and investing in technology. Today, three generations of the Aresti family dedicate their efforts and knowledge to producing widely recognized wines of the highest caliber.
This Sauvignon Blanc is an over achiever delivering knockout aromas of quince, gooseberry and the familiar fresh grapefruit. On the palate there’s a clean straightforward style with focus and a hint of minerality. It’s fresh, vibrant and not flabby. Enjoy on a weeknight when there’s not enough time for an elaborate meal.
Panko Breaded Tilapia & Chilean Sauvignon Blanc
This recipe will work with other white fish, but I chose Tilapia because it's easy to find and it's affordable. There's a little fatty mouthfeel from the addition of mayonnaise along with a lemon citrus flavor, so I'm suggesting Sauvignon Blanc as a pairing. Chilean Sauvie B isn't usually mentioned in the same sentence with prime Sauvignon Blanc producing regions like New Zealand or Loire valley but there's some really well made QPR's to be had from South America. One gem delivering bang for the buck is the Aresti Sauvignon Blanc from Curico valley. If the wine reminds you of a New Zealand, it's partially because the style for this wine was developed by a winemaker from New Zealand in similar growing conditions.
Ingredients:
- 4 5-oz. fillets of tilapia -
- 1 TSP fresh thyme - minced
- 1 TSP fresh rosemary - minced
- 1 TBSP fresh lemon juice -
- 4 TBSP low fat mayonnaise -
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs -
- 2 TBSP extra virgin olive oil -
- salt & pepper -
